Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and, shortly after that, breast cancer, at the age of 57.

I took leaves from work and traveled from Las Vegas to Pittsburgh to care for her before I ultimately moved her to Las Vegas. In 2020, she fell and broke her hip, which really set her back. Two weeks after getting her settled in to her second memory unit, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I’d just turned 48. 

The hardest part for me was not getting the grace period you would get if you didn’t know anything about Parkinson’s. But I knew exactly what it could look like. My mother has the dementia that frequently comes with Parkinson’s. She doesn’t know my name anymore, but I know her. That's the important thing.

Cleveland Clinic saved my life the first time when I was a caregiver. I took Mom there to be treated, then realized how many free programs were available to us. We went to music class, art class and programs to learn more about the disease. We eventually got into Memory Café, a program for patients and caregivers. In addition to the learning, respite and support for me, it gave Mom a sense of community. She didn’t feel so alone. 

Fast forward to my own diagnosis. Until I saw Dr. Oguh1, no one would take my symptoms of early onset Parkinson’s seriously. She’s not only kind and compassionate, she’s also wicked smart. Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health is the first place I’ve felt heard. 

 

Gwen Vaughn has a personal trainer, works out at Rock Steady Boxing (her “tribe”) and enjoys boating, camping and wining/dining with her husband, Chris.  

Gwen and Nancy Rockham

Gwen Vaughn, right, and her mother, Nancy Rackham. | Photo: Lynn Johnson

Note

  1. Odinachi Oguh, MD, is a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders.